Maryland governor plans $2 billion in cuts, scaling back climate efforts

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced plans to cut $2 billion from the state budget, including reductions in climate program funding, to address a projected $3 billion deficit.

Erin Cox and Katie Shepherd report for The Washington Post.

In short:

• Maryland’s $27.2 billion general fund faces a significant shortfall due to economic pressures and the end of pandemic aid.
• Climate initiatives, such as offshore wind projects reliant on federal support, may face cuts, although overall environmental spending could still rise.
• Legislative leaders are divided, with some supporting tax increases to fill the gap while others focus on cost-saving measures.

Key quote:

“The federal support around that the national climate agenda is going to be more challenging. And so we have to adapt.”

— Bill Ferguson, Maryland Senate president

Why this matters:

Maryland has led ambitious efforts to combat climate change, but fiscal constraints may hinder progress. Federal policy shifts could also impact state funding and priorities, influencing environmental and economic policy at a critical time.

Related: Maryland prepares for climate action amid federal uncertainties